Emergency Fund Calculator
Calculate how large your emergency fund should be based on your monthly expenses and job security.
How to use this tool
- Enter essential monthly expenses, months of coverage and current emergency savings in the fields above.
- Results update instantly as you type — or click Calculate.
- Read your emergency fund target and the full breakdown beneath it.
An emergency fund covers unexpected expenses without going into debt. Most experts recommend 3–6 months of essential expenses; consider 9–12 months if your income is variable.
Frequently asked questions
- What counts as an essential monthly expense?
- Include rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries, minimum debt payments, insurance, and transportation. Exclude discretionary spending like dining out, streaming services, and entertainment.
- Where should I keep my emergency fund?
- In a high-yield savings account or money market account — liquid, FDIC-insured, and separate from your checking account to avoid temptation to spend it.